The U.S. energy industry has been an economic powerhouse, employing 8.27 million workers in 2019 and creating jobs at rates 50% faster than the rest of the economy for the past five years. But what does the future hold, especially during this period of economic volatility?

Find out at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 21, when NETL’s Regional Workforce Initiative holds a free webinar to discuss the 2020 U.S. Energy and Employment Report (USEER).

The webinar will feature David Foster, distinguished associate, Energy Futures Initiative, and lead author of the 2020 USEER. Topics to be reviewed include the current state of the energy and advanced manufacturing workforce for the tri-state area (Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia), the broader Appalachian region and the nation, as well as emerging trends such as the short- and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on energy and manufacturing jobs.  

Registration is required for the webinar and space is limited. Registration can be arranged by visiting NETL RWFI – 2020 US Energy and Employment Report (USEER) Briefing Webinar.

Published by the U.S. Department of Energy, the USEER offers unique insights into the people who meet the country’s energy needs, and identifies important trends and skill sets for the 21st century energy workforce.

It also serves as an important and consistent tool used by policymakers at the state and federal levels, trade associations, labor unions and other key stakeholders. It includes a five-year summary of U.S. energy job trends and provides analyses of five energy-related sectors in the U.S. economy — fuels; power generation; transmission, distribution and storage; energy efficiency; and motor vehicles.

The webinar agenda is as follows:

1. Introduction — Anthony Armaly, federal coordinator, NETL Regional Workforce Initiative
2. 2020 U.S. Energy and Employment Report Regional and National Briefing — David Foster
3. Regional and National Impacts Workforce Discussion

NETL is a U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory that produces technological solutions for America’s energy challenges. From developing creative innovations and efficient energy systems that make coal more competitive, to advancing technologies that enhance oil and natural gas extraction and transmission processes, NETL research is providing breakthroughs and discoveries that support domestic energy initiatives, stimulate a growing economy, and improve the health, safety, and security of all Americans. Highly skilled men and women at NETL’s sites in Albany, Oregon; Anchorage, Alaska; Houston, Texas; Morgantown, West Virginia; and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania conduct a broad range of research activities that support DOE’s mission to advance the national, economic, and energy security of the United States.